Airflow issues are among the most common HVAC problems. Learn about the most common causes as well as one easy way to improve AC air flow once and for all.
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Common Causes Of HVAC Airflow Problems
Airflow issues are among the most common HVAC problems. And ignoring the problem for too long can put strain on your system leading to compressor failure.
The good news is, many of the causes behind HVAC airflow problems are easy and relatively inexpensive to fix. Here are the most common causes of HVAC airflow problems.
1. Obstructed condenser unit
Outdoor units can become obstructed due to leaves and debris that have accumulated around the unit. Systems in mechanical rooms can be obstructed by other equipment or storage items. Your first step to improve airflow should be to clear the area around your condensing unit.
2. Blocked vents and registers
This issue is quite common in an office setting when people don’t agree on the thermostat setting! Make sure all vents and registers are open and not blocked by furniture.
3. Clogged filters
If the filter gets overloaded and clogged, it impedes the airflow, leading to hot and cold spots, and stuffy air. Be sure to change your AC filter according to the manufacturer's instructions and your system usage. This could mean as frequently as once a month.
4. Blocked or leaky ducts
Dust that gets past your clogged AC filters winds up accumulating in the ductwork. A buildup of dust can be compounded by ductwork that’s too small for the capacity of your air conditioner. Have your air ducts inspected to see if a good cleaning can solve your problems. The inspection should be free.
5. Thermostat issues
Sometimes, something as simple as a faulty thermostat, or even a low battery can be the cause of HVAC airflow problems.
6. Sluggish fan
If a blower motor is sluggish, or the fan is coated with grime and dirt, that can slow the operation and reduce airflow. Luckily it’s a simple matter to clean the fan.
7. Dirty coils
Since your AC's condenser coil is part of the outdoor unit and exposed to the elements, the coil can get so dirty that it can’t release heat. This means your unit has to work harder (and hotter) to cool your space. This is one reason you should have your coils cleaned regularly. Usually once or twice a year.
8. Low refrigerant levels
If your air conditioner is leaking refrigerant, you’ll notice airflow issues as well as reduced cooling. Your HVAC technician can test for leaks and repair them to get things back up to speed.
9. Oversized AC unit
Units with a capacity too large for the space run inefficiently, cycling on and off too frequently. That means they never run long enough to remove humidity from the space, making it feel stuffy and uncomfortable. If you’ve noticed these symptoms, have your unit checked by an HVAC design expert.
10. Outdated HVAC design
Have you renovated for rearranged your space without updating your HVAC system? If so, the layout or sizing of the ductwork (or possibly the equipment itself) may no longer be able to properly cool the redesigned space. This is another good reason to consult an HVAC design expert.
You can mitigate almost all HVAC airflow problems with regular preventative maintenance. The bottom line is, if you have some of these symptoms of HVAC airflow problems, get your system maintained NOW before you experience that last symptom: system failure.
Arista Air Conditioning. Serving the NYC metro area since 1949.
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